Range of nature-friendly techniques help Leckford meet Regenified’s 6-3-4 Verification Standard
Waitrose’s orchard and vineyards at the Leckford Estate in Hampshire have become the first in the UK to achieve Regenified certification, a global leader in regenerative agriculture verification.
It means the farm has been recognised for its commitment to grow produce - in this case grapes, apples and pears - in a way that is more friendly towards nature.
Waitrose described the achievement as a significant step towards having a permanent Centre of Excellence at its Leckford farm, providing practical tools, workshops, online resources and mentoring to help farmers make the shift to regenerative agriculture.
The supermarket announced in 2021 that it would use its farm, at the Leckford Estate in Hampshire, to drive change by experimenting with a variety of nature-friendly farming practices.
Andrew Hoad, head of the Leckford Estate, said: “We are incredibly proud to be the first vineyard and orchard in the UK to achieve Regenified’s certification. Our commitment to regenerative farming reflects our belief that producing high-quality products and caring for the environment go hand in hand.
“This builds on our regenerative farming journey and we hope to see more farmers embrace similar practices which could lead to certification.”
Achieving the standard
To achieve certification, Leckford met Regenified’s rigorous 6-3-4 Verification Standard - based on six principles, three rules, and four processes. The process will also help the Leckford Estate track its progress in advancing regenerative principles, the retailer said.
By adopting nature-friendly techniques - such as the use of florally diverse species in the alleys between the rows of apple trees and vines and the replacement of herbicides with the use of mechanical weed trimmers - the vineyard and orchard aim to not only produce exceptional products but also contribute to the overall health of the environment by increasing plant diversity and minimising soil disturbance.
Products using fruit from this harvest onwards, such as the Leckford Estate Brut, will have the Certified Regenified seal, highlighting the achievement to customers.
